They also called for improving the livelihoods of poor people through sustainable management of the environment, as there is a link between the environment and poverty.

The high commission recently accorded a reception to development partners in the environment sector, aimed at promoting greater interaction between them and exploring ways to fight poverty.

Representatives of organisations working on environment, entrepreneurs and environment officials attended the reception ceremony.

British High Commissioner David Carter, Deputy Speaker Akhter Hamid Siddiqui and Environment Secretary Syed Tanvir Hossain were also present.

The DFID has already announced an assistance of 20 million pound sterling towards protecting environment.

In the past few years, good environmental practice has played a major role in sustaining poverty reduction, said Tim Robertson, natural resources and environmental advisor to DFID.

"The British High Commission's long-term commitment to environment includes educating the future leaders of Bangladesh through a schools programme," said Russel Bud of the high commission.

He said the UK has been supporting various projects, including renewable energy, climate change awareness, environmental education and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).